Microsoft Cedes to Europe’s Antitrust Regulators

Windows users in Europe soon will get to choose which browser they want on their computers.

Microsoft Corp. has struck a deal with Europe’s antitrust regulators; it will let consumers choose which browser they want installed. Options will include Internet Explorer, Mozilla’s Firefox, Google’s Chrome or Apple’s Safari.

The agreement takes effect next year and applies to all systems running Windows 7, Vista and XP.

The news resolves a year-long battle between the software giant and the European Commission, which targeted Microsoft for hindering browser competition. Microsoft and European regulators have butted heads before in scuffles that resulted in Microsoft paying billions in settlement money.